Why You’ll Love Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This soup is rich yet light, combining savory broth with fresh ingredients and a hint of citrus from lime juice. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize toppings and spice levels. The crispy tortilla strips add the perfect crunch, making every bite both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the soup:
- Shredded chicken
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Cumin
- Adobo powder (optional)
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Zucchini
- Yellow squash
- Lime juice
- Black pepper
- Sea salt
For the tortilla strips:
- Corn tortillas
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt
Optional toppings:
- Pepper Jack cheese
- Tortilla strips
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Lime wedges
Directions
Place the chicken in a stock pot and cover with enough water to fully submerge it. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. Remove and let it cool, then shred or chop the meat, discarding skin and bones.
In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, green onions, cilantro, garlic, oregano, cumin, and adobo powder. Sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Stir in the shredded chicken, zucchini, and yellow squash. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.
Add lime juice and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
For fried tortilla strips, cut tortillas into thin strips. Heat oil in a pan until hot, then fry the strips in batches until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt immediately.
For baked tortilla strips, brush tortillas lightly with oil, cut into strips, and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 12 minutes, turning as needed, until crisp and lightly golden. Season with salt.
Serve the soup hot, topped with tortilla strips, cheese, cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation. For a spicier version, add jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder. Black beans or corn can be added for extra texture and heartiness. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a small amount of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep tortilla strips separate to maintain their crispiness.
To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add fresh toppings and tortilla strips just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly and saves time.
Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Yes, but freeze it without the tortilla strips. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How do I make this soup spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What type of tortillas should I use?
Corn tortillas are traditional and provide the best texture and flavor.
Can I skip frying the tortilla strips?
Yes, baking them is a healthier alternative and still gives a nice crunch.
How do I keep tortilla strips crispy?
Store them separately and add them just before serving.
Can I add beans to this soup?
Yes, black beans or pinto beans are great additions.
What toppings go best with this soup?
Avocado, cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges are classic and enhance the flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and the flavors deepen over time.
Conclusion
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and crispy toppings, it delivers a satisfying meal that can be customized to suit your taste.
